Spartacus
The Bolshoi Ballet
HK Cultural Centre Grand Theatre
Reviewed: Sept 17
All great ballet companies have their own character, and no ballet exemplifies the Bolshoi like Spartacus, which they presented in Hong Kong for the first time last Wednesday. Choreographed by Yuri Grigorovich in 1968, it remains the definitive production for Aram Khachaturian's magnificent score.
Grigorovich isn't the most subtle or innovative of choreographers , but he knows how to tell a story strongly through dance and he is a master of theatre, as the unforgettable ending of Spartacus demonstrates. Choreographically, the ballet is distinguished by the power of its mass dancing scenes and the portrayal of its four central characters.
Grigorovich employs distinct styles for the Romans and the rebels and, as in the music, effective use is made of leitmotif in the signature steps of each character.